As a single parent, my mother struggled raising two mixed children on the outskirts of West Hartford in the early seventies. Believing education was key, she worked two jobs to keep us in schools that would provide my sister and I a better future. We moved almost on a yearly basis and never lived in a house. We struggled at times but she was determined to give us a better future. Because of my mother’s drive to “Do Better” she was often not around so I grew up fast in the streets of Hartford. From dawn to dusk I was out on my bike with a boom box strapped to my handle bars and a basketball in my hand. However, even if my mother was not home, school was a priority. She always made time to help with homework, made sure my grades were on point and was not afraid to pull the belt out if I got into trouble. I finished school, went to college, have a career and have a family of my own. My mother was my role model and I thank her for making me the man I am today.
As a father of two children, I want to “Do Better” for them. I want them to live a better life than what I had. I want them to know their roots, have knowledge of self, be spiritual, be humble and well grounded. I want them to know their community as well as the communities of those less fortunate. I want them to know dreams can come true if you work hard and never give up. I want them to strive to be the best they can be, both personally, spiritually and academically. I feel my job as a parent is to lay that foundation, be a role model and provide them with as many opportunities for growth as possible. I will “Do Better” for them.
If I can do it so can you. I challenge you to “Do Better” for your children and then challenge them to “Do Better” for their children. Break the cycle that others say are impossible. Create a legacy. Make a difference. Peace.
Thanks,
Marc
